Why You Should Eat Chocolate

6 years agoYou may have heard (or hoped) that chocolate is good for you. It’s true, if you eat the right kind. Studies show that eating small amounts (7 ounces a week) of high-quality dark chocolate has health benefits. But it has to contain at least 70% cacao and be low in sugar and fat.

Here are the 3 biggest benefits of eating dark chocolate:It lowers your risk of heart disease. How?: Research indicates eating dark chocolate helps lower blood pressure. But it doesn’t work if you’re eating other things that are not healthy.Why?: Dark chocolate contains flavonoids. These plant chemicals have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Foods rich in flavonoids have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.

It helps reduce the negative effects of stress. How?: Scientists have found dark chocolate to reduce anxiety (probably why you crave it when you’re stressed!). It can also help you feel happier. Why?: Dark chocolate raises endorphin levels in the brain, which give you an euphoric feeling. It also triggers serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter (signal to the brain) known to be an anti-depressant.It may lower your Body Mass Index (BMI). How?: Eating dark chocolate can help your body naturally regulate your weight.Why?: BMI is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height that is an indicator of body fat. Dr. David Katz of Yale University says research suggests that antioxidants might play a role in reducing inflammation, and dark chocolate in particular might help balance the hormones that facilitate weight control.